It’s summer and the weather is gorgeous. I love to spend the long days outside, but it’s important to remember to stay hydrated and not overdo your time in the sun. Always with my young active family in mind, I’ve discovered a few tricks and natural products over the years to make sure the whole family can enjoy the sunny weather. Here a few of my best tips:
Sun protection
When you expect to spend the day outside in the hot sun, it’s important to plan for shade. I always keep an umbrella or small parasol in the car for our outdoor excursions, and I make sure everyone has a hat. I also carry kids’ mineral sunscreen in my bag. My favourite brands are Druide, Green Beaver and Attitude. Unlike chemical sunscreens, mineral sunscreens provide a physical barrier that protects the skin in a natural way.
This physical or mineral barrier forms a protective layer between the sun and the skin. Only mineral sunscreens can be certified organic. They consist of micro-pigments that reflect the sun’s rays like a mirror, dispersing them. A small portion of the sun’s rays is also absorbed. Generally, titanium dioxide and zinc oxide are the main ingredients that form the protective barrier. Not only is this type of sunscreen free of side effects, it is more environmentally friendly than its chemical counterpart.
Staying hydrated
Our bodies need to stay hydrated, no matter what the season (an average of 1.5 to 3 litres a day for adults), and all the more so on hot summer days. Not matter how old or young you are, it is important to not become dehydrated. In our family, we always to use large insulated bottles that keep the water cold all day long. On sports and active days, I add Vega electrolytes to coconut or maple water, which provide natural minerals and keep me well hydrated. Maple water is a local product that comes directly from the tree, without too much processing. It isn’t overly sweet, making it a good alternative to more sugary drinks. Another way to make your water more delectable is to add fresh mint leaves or some pure wild blueberry juice.
Natural bug sprays and after-sun gels
Those mosquitoes had better watch out! If you are well prepared, you can enjoy your summers in the country and near water without worrying about getting bitten by insects! There are wonderful natural products that can keep those little pests away from the whole family. My family’s favourite product these days is Bébé Hibou’s Spray Nature insect repellent. It also smells nice, unlike products that only contain citronella and sometimes have a strong odour that kids don’t like. It’s easy to apply and doesn’t leave an oily residue. It contains geraniol and citronellol.
After spending the day outdoors in the sun, what could be better than a refreshing shower followed by a restorative after-sun lotion? Our skin also needs to be nourished and hydrated. To prevent my skin from becoming dry, I like to use a gel made by Attitude, a Quebec-based company. Their after sun calendula gel with cucumber and mint melts into the skin. It moisturizes, repairs and refreshes!
